Discover my favorite second-hand finds and tips for savvy shopping
Hengoed: Second-hand shopping has really taken off lately, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. With everything getting more expensive, like rent and bills, many folks are left with barely any cash to spare each month.
Plus, there’s a growing awareness about overconsumption and the need to recycle. So, more people are choosing to buy second-hand instead of brand new. Oxfam even found that 41% of UK adults are wearing more second-hand clothes than they did two years ago.
I’ve always enjoyed browsing vintage and antique shops, and I’ve been picking up furniture from Facebook Marketplace and charity shops for ages. But since I discovered Vinted in 2021, my passion for second-hand shopping has really taken off.
This year has been a bit rough for me, with interest rates skyrocketing and my mortgage doubling. So, I’ve dived headfirst into second-hand shopping. From charity shops to car boot sales and online marketplaces, I’ve found some amazing deals and have tips to share for anyone looking to shop second-hand.
Car boot sales are a goldmine for bargains. I snagged an Olivia Burton watch for just £3, and it’s still selling online for around £90! I took it to a local shop to get the battery replaced, and I ended up with a like-new watch for under £5. I even saw the same watch on Vinted for £40, which is still a good deal, but not as sweet as what I got.
These sales are great because many sellers are clearing out their homes and just want to get rid of stuff. You can find items that are way cheaper than what you’d pay online. My tip? If you find something that needs a little fixing, go for it! You might end up with a fantastic deal.
Then there are tip or recycling shops. I discovered these this year, and they’re awesome for finding toys. In Rhondda Cynon Taf, there are a few places called The Shed near recycling centers where people donate items instead of tossing them. I got two Imaginext Batman towers for just £1 each, and they usually sell for $25-$50 new.
At another tip shop in Cardiff, I found a bunch of goodies for just £8! I got four vintage tennis racquets, some wooden display shelves, and a cute little toy house that my son loves. It turns out that toy house is a Melissa and Doug item that retails for £40, and I got it for less than a quid!
But, fair warning, tip shops can be hit or miss. Don’t expect to find what you want right away. Just keep checking back, especially around the holidays when people are clearing out their stuff.
Charity shops are another favorite of mine. I’ve found brands like Free People and All Saints for as little as £5.99! But I’ve noticed that prices have gone up a bit lately. Some shops seem to be catching on to the fact that people resell items online, which can make things pricier than they should be.
There’s a great Cancer Research UK store in Cardiff where everything is £5 and under. It’s perfect for picking up basics. One of my best finds this year was a Spiderman bike for just £14.99, and it’s in nearly new condition. The same bike goes for around £140 online!
When shopping at charity shops, set a budget and ask yourself if you really need the item. Just because it’s a good price doesn’t mean you should buy it.
As for Vinted, it’s become my go-to for clothes. I did buy a bridesmaid dress for £25 that usually retails for £150. It needed a little adjustment, but I saved a ton! My advice? Always check Vinted before buying clothes elsewhere. You might find what you want for less.
Use the app’s filters to find your favorite brands and sizes. Sometimes a general search can lead you to exactly what you’re looking for.